Ashford Castle is a luxury 5-star hotel set in 141 hectares (350 acres) in Ashford Castle Demesne, on the shore of Lough Corrib.

Tom Phillips + Associates (TPA) were appointed to deliver the vision identified in the Masterplan for the demesne lands through securing planning permission and other statutory consents as required for works to the existing hotel and other structures within the demesne. The proposed works range from internal refurbishment works within the main castle building including elevational changes, refurbishment and changes of use to other buildings located throughout the demesne and significant new build extensions and additions to the main hotel building.

TPA has provided strategic planning advice to the Client and design team regarding all aspects of the proposed development from inception, having particular regard to the Protected Structure status of the site and the proximity of the lands to a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). This interface between Planning, Conservation and Environmental considerations requires ongoing and careful analysis of each development individually and cumulatively and close interaction with other members of the Design Team.

TPA also liaised with both relevant Planning Authorities (Galway and Mayo County Council) at pre-planning, as required, including coordinating and leading the lodgement of all planning applications on the lands including preparing Responses to Requests for Further Information and compliance submissions. TPA secured 8 No. Grants of planning permission for development for various applications for Ashford Castle.